The Tibetan Mastiff is considered an ancient, primitive breed originating with nomadic cultures of Central Asia. Some of the breed's characteristics are still found in primitive species like wolves. Its double coat is long, subject to climate, and found in a wide variety of colors including solid black, black & tan, various shades of gold, blue/gray, chocolate brown, with the palest cream known as white. Like other types of large mastiffs, they have large heavy heads and pronounced wrinkling. They are hypoallergenic with a thick double coat that only sheds once per year in late Spring.
Tibetan Mastiffs bred in Tibet are ferocious, aggressive and unpredictable. In contrast, Tibetan Mastiffs bred in England are obedient and loyal. The difference is due to selective breeding and training as guard dogs in Tibet. Many breeders throughout Asia are now seeking to preserve and breed the larger, original, more protective Tibetan Mastiff while Western breeders are aiming toward a more stabile temperament, in both size varieties.
As a flock guardian dog in Tibet, it is tenacious in its ability to confront predators the size of wolves and leopards. As a socialized, more domestic Western dog, it thrives in a spacious, fenced yard with a canine companion, but it is not an appropriate dog for apartment living. The Western-bred dogs are generally more easy-going, although somewhat aloof with strangers coming to the home. Through hundreds of years of selective breeding for a protective flock and family guardian, the breed has been prized for being a nocturnal sentry, keeping would-be predators and intruders at bay, barking at sounds throughout the night.
Leaving a Tibetan Mastiff outside all night with neighbors nearby is not recommended. They often sleep during the day to be more active, alert and aware at night. Like all flock guardian breeds, they are intelligent and stubborn to a fault, so obedience training is recommended (although only mildly successful) since this is a strong-willed, powerful breed. Socialization is also critical with this breed because of their reserved nature with strangers and guarding instincts. They are excellent family dogs.
Newspaper reports have suggested that a pair of these Mastiffs have killed tigers while guarding sheep in the highlands of Nepal.
Life expectancy is 10-14 years.
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